Set on the plantation of a rich Mississippi cotton grower, Tennessee Williams' play deals with the smouldering conflicts that suddenly erupt during Big Daddy's birthday celebrations when the family learns that he is close to death. In a shattering night of revelation, each member of the family, imprisoned by avarice, envy and self-delusion, is forced to face reality. Brick, escaping life in drink, Maggie, desperate with frustration in her loveless marriage, and Big Daddy and Big Mama, hopelessly denying the fact of death , find themselves at last speaking the terrifying truth.